Post #817989 by Emanukai on Fri, Feb 20, 2026 4:57 AM

I'll never forget the moment I met Daniel. It was years ago, a night or two before the Hukilau started. I was browsing in the Mai Kai shop when I heard a voice behind me: "I made this mug..." I don't remember who he was talking to, but when I turned around I recognized him immediately. We'd been friends on Facebook for a while. "Tiki Dibalo..." I said. He looked at me for a moment and said, "The Italian guy..." He recognized me. After a brief chat, he invited me for a drink at the Molokai Bar, where he introduced me to his wife Stephanie, Mo Herms, and Linda Noel. He was the first artist from the Tiki scene I met in person. Over the years, we'd text each other, I'd send him photos of the small works I was doing, he was always available for advice or suggestions. When I was around him, I felt his positive energy... he wasn't just a great artist, he was a man with a big heart. And he left us far too soon.

I will miss you Daniel, I love you!